Green Space to Sea Space

Ocean Panoramas from Heisler Park

01.19.2016

Green space meets sea space at Heisler Park in Laguna Beach. Spanning 32 acres, the park meanders with pathways and greenery fanned with palms and a statue of a humpback whale. It's also one of the best vantages of ocean panoramas. Take it a step further on the southernmost stairs leading to the beach. The sea stack known as Bird Rock is nature's condo for black-bellied plovers, pelicans, cormorants, and seagulls. Head north and check out the tide pools. These tiny ecosystems teem with life: Hermit crabs, sea anemones, urchins, and kelp keep things lively. Rock hopping gets you to the good stuff, like bright bat stars, violet sea slugs, and—if you're lucky—the elusive two-spotted octopus. Warning: Don’t touch the sea life! There are a few caves to explore on your way to the northernmost staircase.

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